Creating Montessori-Inspired Spaces that Foster Independence
As a parent, finding the framework for your parenting philosophy can be challenging. I was given the gift of Montessori when I was (very) pregnant with my first child. A client I was working with commented that when I started to look for education for my little one, I should look into Montessori. He said his wife left her corporate job to be a Montessori educator and never looked back. Now, with two kids, ages 12 and 7, I am grateful for the valuable insights I’ve gained as a student of the Montessori pedagogy.
One of the concepts I use most is “the prepared environment.” This means everything has a purpose and a place. This can apply to any age group, but for toddlers and preschoolers, it can be particularly important as they have yet to develop their internal organization skills and therefore rely on an orderly environment. As a mom and an organizer, I know the difference a well-designed environment can make for a young child. Here are some ideas I consider when planning a space:
The Right Size
One of the first steps in creating a Montessori-inspired space is to ensure that the furniture is appropriately sized for children. When kids have access to furniture that fits their small frames, it significantly boosts their sense of belonging and independence.
Consider chairs and tables that allow their feet to touch the ground and enable them to climb in and out independently. Storage solutions like low shelves and accessible drawers can empower children to select their own toys, dishes, and clothes. This autonomy not only fosters independence but also cultivates responsibility and decision-making skills.
Things in Reach
Ensure everyday items are within your child’s reach. When they can access their clothes or help themselves to a snack, you’ll hear fewer calls for assistance. Imagine the satisfaction of hearing your child get their own water instead of calling for you!
Practical strategies include stools in strategic areas or ones that can be moved by your child, items placed on low shelves and drawers for easy access, and coat hooks low enough for your child to reach. In the kitchen, a child can participate more fully in meal preparation if given a low surface at which they can stand or a small stepstool, which provides a safe platform to reach the counter.
The Right Tools
Provide appropriate tools for your child so they may fully participate in the care of themselves and the home. For cleaning, several items can be found or made for toddler-sized hands. A hand-held sweeper and dustpan for cleaning messes, a Swiffer with the
middle section of the handle taken out for cleaning floors, and a caddy with cloths and a small spray bottle with child-safe cleaner will keep your little one happily spraying and wiping for entire minutes at a time.
In the kitchen, introducing safe, child-friendly tools can empower kids to assist with food preparation. Children can slice eggs and strawberries in an egg slicer, cut or chop vegetables with a plastic knife or toddler-friendly chopper, and peel carrots, cucumbers, and more with a small peeler. Google child-friendly or toddler-friendly kitchen tools, and you’ll be amazed at what you find. Don’t underestimate the power of a toddler with the right tools at their disposal.
Freedom with Choices (Within Limits)
A cornerstone of Montessori philosophy is the idea of “freedom within limits.” Giving appropriate choices whenever possible makes a toddler feel more in control of themselves and their environment and less likely to initiate a power struggle when they have less choice in the matter (like putting on their seatbelt).
Clothing is a great example. Asking a toddler, “Will you please put on your shoes?” can invite a “no,” whereas asking, “Which pair of shoes would you like to wear today – your rainbow shoes or your red shoes?” gives a choice without overwhelming them with too many options. Providing baskets or drawers with a few types of weather-appropriate clothing accomplishes the same goal.
This principle can also be applied to snacks. A small basket or bin of parent-approved snacks can be made available so your toddler can decide which snack they want and when.
Participation, Not Perfection
While creating a well-designed environment is an excellent first step, it is equally important to adopt a “participation, not perfection” mindset. This is particularly imperative in our interactions with young children. When your toddler proudly shows you they have put on their shirt all by themselves, even if it’s backward, celebrate their accomplishment with them rather than pointing out the error.
Saying, “Wow, that was hard work, and you did it all by yourself” affirms their efforts and boosts their self-esteem. If they express discomfort with their shoes, you can gently guide them by saying, “I hear you; let’s see if switching them feels better.”
When cleaning, if your child is beaming with pride at the dirt in their dustpan, but you see more on the floor, you can helpfully say, “Wow, look at all of the dirt you swept up! Can I show you where I see a little more you can get?” This invites them to continue the work, rather than feeling discouraged by an adult coming behind them to finish. If there is still more to get, you can do it later when they are otherwise occupied. Celebrate the effort, rather than correct the outcome. With time and maturity, mastery will come.
Young children are capable of more than they are often given the opportunity to do. Provide them the tools and spaces they need and watch them become independent, curious, and contributing members of your family.
